Budapest City Guide | What To See

Recently Danny and I packed our bags… well, in fact, a joint bag and headed to Budapest for a couple of days. It was a short break before Danny turned 30 that I planned as a surprise for him. I wish I could give you a reason why I chose Budapest, but I was just somewhere not too far away that seemed pretty. Now, however, I am going to be able to share with you the many reasons why you should visit this beautiful city of Budapest, starting with some things you should see.

Budapest is split into Buda and Pest by the Danube River – I had no idea this was the case until I started planning this trip. Buda is more hilly and gives greats views over the city whilst there is arguably more to do in it’s flatter neighbour, Pest.

Buda Castle

As we were staying in Buda, we decided to explore the area close to our Airbnb first. Luckily for us, Buda Castle was practically on our doorstep. You can either walk up or get the funicular, it really isn’t far to walk (it looks much further) but if you do have mobility issues I would recommend getting the funicular, we chose to get it up just for the novelty and meander down by foot.

It’s worth spending a bit of time wandering around the grounds and taking in the incredible views you get from this area.

Fisherman’s Bastion

A short walk away is the neo-Gothic and neo- Romanesque style terrace known as the Fisherman’s Bastion. White marble peaks almost engulf you, the seven tower representing the seven tribes that settled in 896. Visit for panoramic views across the Danube to Parliment and stretching across to Gellert Hill.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of two tallest buildings in Budapest. It is one of the most important church buildings in Hungary and as a result is one the most significant tourist attractions. The architecture speaks for itself and the detail in the carvings as your get closer is truly admirable.

The square in which the Basilica sits leads off in lovely wide streets perfect for wandering, getting lost and discovering new gems.

Hungarian Parliament Building

Gardens filled with multicoloured blooms? Check. Pink-peaked, intricate rooftops? Double check. I’m sold! Walk along the Danube River to take in the views while you make your way to the Hungarian Parliament building, that way you’ll see the memorial that is ‘Shoes on the Danube’ too.

Szimpla Kert

When you plan a trip to Budapest it’s inevitable you will come across its famous ruin bars. Possibly the most famous being Szimpla Kert. Because it was the ‘most famous’ we were very tempted to find a more local experience but we couldn’t resist popping in when we found ourselves nearby. Go at night for the atmosphere and in the day to really see the uniqueness of the place. Ps… the cocktails are dirt cheap for a reason.

Chain Bridge

We walked across chain bridge multiple times a day during our Budapest city break. It was our easiest way of crossing and for us walking was the perfect way to get around. After dinner one night go for a walk across this well-lit bridge. Why not wander up to the Fishermans Bastion and share a bottle of wine? Trust us, Paris isn’t the only romantic city.